Water, Fire and Smoke Effects Using Particles and Opacity Maps
Learn how to use particles and Opacity maps to create smoke, fire or water using 3d studio max
First we need some particles. In general, start by creating a super spray particle system. Then start changing parameters.
Both Off-Axis and Off-Plane spreads should be numbers between 10-20. This will let the particles spread out a bit after they're launched from the emitter.
Adjust the particle rate and speed for whatever effect you're trying to achieve. Rushing water is fast, smoke is slow, fire somewhere in between. Remember to add some variation.